Explanation

Hyperglycaemia is very high blood sugar, and you may get it if you have type 1 diabetes . It can cause serious long-term problems if it is not treated.

Over time, very small blood vessels become damaged causing permanent harm to your eyes and kidneys. This can even lead to blindness and kidney failure, if it isn't caught in time. Nerves can also be damaged, so you may not be able to feel sensations and pain as well as normal.

Hyperglycaemia can also damage larger blood vessels. It makes arteries more likely to become narrower, and if this happens you are more likely to get heart disease or have a stroke when you are older, because your blood can't flow properly. You could also get ulcers on your leg or foot, which can lead to infection.

If you have type 1 diabetes, you need injections of insulin to stop you getting hyperglycaemia.